Secured by the Company's RGS Energy Division, Installations Address Key Market Segments

LOUISVILLE, Colo., Dec. 19, 2012 -- Real Goods Solar, Inc.

(Nasdaq:RSOL), a leading provider of turnkey solar energy solutions, has
recently secured more than 5 megawatts in solar power projects across
Arizona and California in key education, municipal, and commercial market
segments. These significant multi-site programs were won by RGS Energy, the
company's commercial and utility division, and strengthen the company's
backlog as it begins 2013.

The project sites range from police and fire stations, city halls and
community centers to educational facilities and a luxury resort. The
installations will feature solar carports and rooftop arrays designed to
blend into the individual aesthetics of each site, with all the projects
expected to be completed in the first half of 2013.

"Expanding into these important market segments in the Southwest has been a
key priority," said Kam Mofid, Real Goods Solar CEO. "These wins strengthen
our growth momentum as we enter 2013 and demonstrate RGS Energy's ability to
secure multi-million dollar solar power projects in both public and
commercial sectors that provide substantial end-user savings."

According to Tim Seamans, general manager of RGS Energy: "These projects
will help our customers offset up to 80% of their electricity usage while
substantially lowering their carbon footprint. We are proud to provide such
outstanding economic and environmental benefits to our customers."

About Real Goods Solar and RGS Energy

Real Goods Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq:RSOL) is one of the nation's pioneering solar
energy companies serving commercial, residential, and utility customers.
Beginning with one of the very first photovoltaic panels sold in the U.S. in
1978, the company has installed more than 14,000 solar power systems
representing 75 megawatts of 100% clean renewable energy. Real Goods Solar
makes it very convenient for customers to save on their energy bill by
providing a comprehensive solar solution, from design, financing, permitting
and installation to ongoing monitoring, maintenance and support. As one of
the nation's largest and most experienced solar power installers, the
company has 15 offices across the West and the Northeast. It services the
commercial and utility markets through its RGS Energy division. For more
information visit RealGoodsSolar.com or RGSEnergy.com, or call (888)
507-2561.